Shipston Music Trail filled the void left by the Proms this weekend.

With the annual Shipston Proms cancelled in both 2020 and 2021, organisers were able to organise a musical trail which took place last weekend, from September 3 to 5.

Every pub in Shipston-on-Stour was involved in the three-day festival which kicked off with a casino night.

Proms spokesperson, Susan Perry, said: “The weekend was heralded by a welcome burst of September sunshine and a shimmering set from professional singer Louise James at the Hub.

“It was a vibrant start to the music weekend which on Saturday, saw back-to-back music in the town pubs and cafes.”

She said: “All venues, acts and audiences contributed to a very lively and community spirited weekend. I met our former babysitter in the Lazy Pug, the first time I had seen her in 27 years!

“We thank everyone who got involved to make the weekend such a success and look forward to welcoming you all when we return to a full Proms next year.”

Many Proms regulars returned to bring a musical buzz to the town, including Jerv, Greg Brice, The Peas and Hanksters.

Barney Porter of Jerv said: “Great atmosphere and lovely to see shipston buzzing with music again.”

Brice, a regular on the proms circuit, said: “It was good to see so many people out relaxing in the sun, enjoying a beer and supporting the music in the town.”

There were also several new acts including FAZFunk, Jack Reach and the Shaders, The Artichokes and The Dropouts.

Sharon Sampson, landlady of The Coach and Horses which hosted the latter, said: “Our customers thoroughly enjoyed the evening of music from The Dropouts.”

On Saturday night the George Inn in Lower Brailes hosted an open mic night and for Ms Perry, 16-year-old five-string banjo player Josh Rowley was a particular highlight.

She commented: “Definitely someone to watch out for in the future!”

Speaking before the event, Ms Perry said: ““Events like this can be a much-needed lifeline for musicians as their industry has been hit hard by the pandemic.

“Fortunately, in our area, live music has been given a boost over the last few months.”